We perceive the design of the new Ještěd cable car as an exceptional and highly complex project, requiring a sensitive approach to the site, its history, and its symbolic significance. The new funicular is designed as a single large-capacity Funifor cabin, suspended on two cables so-called “ropeway tram” with a capacity of up to 100 passengers.
The selected single-cabin system enables efficient and clearly organized passenger boarding. The overall transport capacity will in fact be slightly higher than that of the original system. In the initial design phases, we also considered a two-cabin variant; however, thanks to its dual suspension arms and greater stability in windy conditions, the Funifor system is currently regarded as one of the safest ropeway technologies. For this reason, it ultimately proved to be the most suitable solution. At the same time, its very short suspension allows for lower pylons, resulting in a more sensitive integration into the landscape.
Our primary point of reference was the iconic architecture of the Ještěd Hotel and Television Tower, whose timelessness and powerful silhouette rank among the most important symbols of Czech modern architecture. The dialogue between technology, landscape, and architecture was therefore central to our approach. The cabin design builds upon this landmark and further develops its principles through a contemporary, minimalist, and technologically advanced solution.
We also drew inspiration from Czech science fiction of the 1960s and 1970s, particularly the film Tomorrow I’ll Wake Up and Scald Myself with Tea (Zítra vstanu a opařím se čajem), with production design by my favourite artist Theodor Pištěk (1932 - 2025). These references are reflected not only in the overall silhouette of the cabin, which may evoke a landing UFO, but also in subtle details of lighting and interior atmosphere. One such element is a small glass opening in the floor, which became the basis for a playful lighting feature referencing this aesthetic.
We believe that Karel Hubáček (1924–2011), the architect of this unique structure, would have appreciated the transformation of the upper station as well. The ropeway will be longer overall, with its route beginning already at the Horní Hanychov tram terminus, and an additional intermediate station will be introduced approximately halfway along the route, contributing to improved accessibility and smoother operation.
The first design proposals were presented to the City of Liberec and the public at the end of 2024. Subsequently, two variants were evaluated, differing in specific design details. The selected variant, characterized by an organic, wave-like line of the floor and roof, was further refined into its final form, including an outline of the relationship between the cabin and the upper station. The final design thus combines technical rationality with a distinctive yet cultivated expression.
Our goal was to create a funicular that people will grow fond of one in which each journey is not merely a means of transport, but a genuine experience. A funicular that will naturally belong to Ještěd and, over time, become both an integral part of it and a new symbol of the city of Liberec.
The project is currently in the preparatory phase, which includes the independent selection of the manufacturer and the construction contractor. The detailed ropeway construction documentation is currently being prepared by SIAL and Valbek.
We are proud to be part of the creation of the new Ještěd funicular and to contribute to the future form of one of the most distinctive places in the Czech landscape.
